Oral question asked in the House of Lords, by Duke of Montrose (Conservative). It was answered on Monday, 12 October 2009.

Libya: Abdul Baset Ali al-Megrahi

Question: My Lords, have the Government established to their own satisfaction that the medical opinions delivered in respect of the release of al-Megrahi were the result of proper examination? At that level, surely they are able to talk to the Scottish Executive to check the facts? It would have allowed the appeal to go forward, which would have resulted in a much more satisfactory outcome.

Answer: My Lords, I am sure that full medical examinations did take place. Under Scotland’s system of compassionate release, they take place when it is considered that the person concerned will live for another three months. That decision was taken on the basis of clear evidence. The Scottish Justice Secretary set out the process by which he decided to refuse a prisoner transfer, but as noble Lords know, then decided to grant compassionate release.

Secondary information

Type: Oral question
Reference: 713 c3
Session: 2008-09
Oral question type: Supplementary
Chamber / Committee: House of Lords chamber
Subjects: Bombings Prisoners' release Lockerbie Libya al Megrahi, Abdelbasit Ali Mohmed Scottish Government
Link: View this Oral question on www.publications.parliament.uk